I know these types of requests are plentiful but I'm looking for a solution to a specific setup and not sure how to proceed...
 
The system I use for Sonar 3S has a soundblaster card I have had for years. It works fine for movies, games, media player, etc in a 7.1 format. However, it is probably the worst when it comes to any type of audio software, crappy ASIO drivers, latency, lots of glitches in sound, ...
 
So, my questions is, what type of external hardware can I use that will play nice with Sonar but won't require an entire overhaul or another discreet subsystem? I've been looking at the Focusrite 2i4 as I think it may work. Inputs aren't all that important as only use them occasionally for external midi synths and the occasional mic recordings.
 
I was thinking I could keep the soundcard and use the 2i4 but that involves lost of patch changes with the existing speakers or I ditch the soundcard entirely. I'm not opposed to trashing the SB but would like to keep at least 2.1 and the existing speakers.
 
Is there a better solution? Is there a better soundcard than Soundblaster's that have good, low latency drivers? Currently using Win7 Pro x64.
 
 

what is the most you can spend?
 

Somewhere in the $200 max range. Perhaps more if it has something I can't live without. :)

there's just not a lot of range at that limitation.
 
in other words, everything is about the same quality as everything else,
at that price range.
 
but literally ANTYHING would be better than a realtek and/or blaster.
 
http://www.musicradar.com...udio-interfaces-570850

SB cards are for games and streaming different media formats smoothly.  It does a great job at games, you tube, etc.  It isn't made for streaming lots of content in a single format.
 
As bat says, there isn't a "better" choice at such prices.  The hardware is mostly the same (same design and circuits) although there is some difference in drivers.  But the interface that works for one system won't work on the next.  So you should buy from a good store or web shop where you can return your interface for the next one.
 
Take a look at what is offered at your prices and then come back and ask if anyone has used your choice.  TASCAM are a good choice now since Cakewalk is owned by Gibson - who also own TASCAM.  Lots of incest between the two using each other's products so TASCAM should be well-tested on SONAR and different systems.  But whatever you get the best deal on i'd start with.
 
@

Perhaps my limit is unrealistic then. I was thinking in the $200 range as that is what the Focusrite2i4 and roughly equivalent interfaces from Steinberg UR22 and Tascam US2x2 were costing. The 2i4 had 4 outs though so why I was leaning toward it.
 
To make sure I understand, these would not be any better than what I have now or may not work at all? What would you all consider an entry level price range?

Yes, the 2i4, UR22 and US2x2 are all better than a soundblaster for music recording/mixing and yes, I would consider any of those for $200 and for entry level.
 
also consider the Presonus Audiobox 22VSL at that range.  Personally I have tried both the Presonus and the Focusrite and I prefer the Presonus over Focusrite because of the mic/line inputs of the Presonus being much better than the Focusrite.
 
I can't speak for anyone else, but when I first read your initial post, it sounded like you were looking for a minimum 7.1 output recording soundcard for $200 and that's just not feasible.
 
however, if you're trying to do movies, games, etc on even with a focusrite 4 output, it's not going to work.  if you have 7.1 output audio then you need 7.1 outputs on the soundcard or you drop down to stereo.  using 4 outputs of a 7.1 audio file will sound worse (you'll lose a lot of the sound) than if you simply used it in stereo mode.

I would like to keep the 7.1 system but that is not really critical. At his point I had rather get the glitches out of Sonar and the vsti's than worry about movies and games. I think I'm going to start with a 4x4 interface of some brand and then get a set of monitors for it later if I find I can't live without the 7.1 system.
 
I will check out the Presonus boxes as well.
 
Thanks for the suggestions!

I decided to try the Behringer FCA610. $200 from B&H Photo. I have never been one to give much stock to Behringer but I shall see for the first (and perhaps last) time.

Behringer has improved quality across the board in the last few years, IMO.  it will likely be a good unit for you.